Millions of people around the world will today be celebrating one of Scotland’s most famous sons.
Each Jan. 25 marks the birth of Robert Burns in the sleepy little village of Alloway, Ayrshire in southwest Scotland.
Originally working for the equivalent of the inland revenue as a taxman, of sorts, in the mid-18th century, Burns went on to become one of the world’s most famous poets.
Burns’ most famous contribution is likely Auld Lang Syne, traditionally sung right after midnight around the world on New Year’s Eve.
On or around every Jan. 25, people of Scottish heritage get together and host Rabbie Burns Nights, referred to as “Robbie” Burns in North America, which comprises of men dressed in kilts, a ceremonial haggis-cutting, whisky, speeches and Highland dancing.
One such event took place last week in New Westminster, with Richmond’s Ian MacLeod at the head of affairs.
MacLeod, of the Clan MacLeod Society of Canada, used to help organize such events in Richmond.
At last week’s event, about 25 MacLeods, many from Richmond, joined about 50 others at the Sons of Scotland-organized dinner at Queens Park Centennial Lodge in New Westminster.
